Harvey Weinstein’s attorney has revealed that the disgraced film mogul faced a near-fatal health crisis just before undergoing emergency heart surgery last weekend. At 72, Weinstein is grappling with new criminal charges that were announced by prosecutors after a New York grand jury issued fresh indictments. Due to serious health concerns, Weinstein was unable to attend the hearing where these charges were detailed.
Sources indicate that Weinstein was rushed to a Manhattan hospital following complications with his heart. His lawyer, Arthur Aidala, informed the court that prosecutors had updated him regarding the three new criminal complaints linked to alleged incidents that occurred in 2005, 2006, and 2016, although specific details were not disclosed. Aidala explained to Judge Curtis Farber that Weinstein’s health deteriorated significantly, leading to the emergency surgery.
Further confirming the situation, attorney Craig Rothfeld reported that Weinstein was in stable condition after the procedure aimed at addressing fluid build-up in his heart and lungs. Rothfeld reassured that Weinstein was recovering, following a hospitalization that stemmed from several ongoing medical issues.
Weinstein’s spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, emphasized that his condition is now stable, noting that he is resting and might be out of immediate danger. However, it has been highlighted that the former producer’s health has significantly declined since the numerous allegations of sexual misconduct against him surfaced publicly.
Weinstein is currently facing a retrial alongside new allegations from over a hundred women regarding sexual abuse. His legal troubles escalated after he was initially sentenced to 23 years in prison in February 2020, a decision that was overturned by an appeals court in April.
His attorneys previously communicated that he suffers from a myriad of health problems, including diabetes, hypertension, and spinal stenosis. Currently being treated in a hospital rather than a prison facility, Weinstein is receiving closer medical supervision essential for his health. Earlier this year, he was hospitalized due to COVID-19 and pneumonia affecting both lungs.
On Thursday, Judge Curtis Farber approved a request from Weinstein’s defense team to transfer him indefinitely to Bellevue Hospital instead of returning him to the infirmary at Rikers Island. The defense argued that the hospital environment is better suited for his medical needs as he prepares for upcoming legal proceedings.
In response to the surfacing of new accusers, Jessica Mann, a key witness from Weinstein’s 2020 trial, voiced her support. She expressed solidarity with those coming forward and vowed to fight alongside them for accountability and justice against such offenders.